Homecoming festivities have already begun, and this year’s theme is “From Lawrence with Love.” If you’re reading this, you may think that Homecoming has nothing to do with law school. You would be wrong. Although many of the events that occur during Homecoming Week are aimed at the undergraduate student body, the actual day of Homecoming and its festivities are intended for everyone.
As a KU undergrad, I was fortunate to experience Homecoming traditions at KU for many years. Some of the events and my participation have definitely changed since starting law school; however, some things never change. KU prides itself on the unique traditions that give us national recognition. Homecoming gives alumni, current students, future students, family, and friends the opportunity to reunite and continue those traditions as we share them with others.
KU plays Texas Tech at 11 a.m. Saturday, but the Homecoming celebrations begin way before kickoff. The “Pregame Pancakes” begin at 7 a.m. at the Adams Alumni Center parking lot. Proceeds from the breakfast will be donated to the United Way of Douglas County. The Homecoming Parade at 8 a.m. is a great way to bring your friends and family out to see all the different floats that various student organizations have spent all week building.
Tailgating is a great part of celebrating and enjoying football season. The Student Bar Association is hosting a tailgate on the Hill, where free bagels, soft drinks, juices, and beer will be provided. The SBA tailgate is a great way to meet with other students, professors, and alumni in a more casual setting. Many alumni travel from all over to return to Lawrence for Homecoming, and it is a great way to learn about what it was like for them when they were students at KU. My mentor’s husband is a KU Law alumnus, and I met the couple for the first time last year at the Homecoming tailgate. My mentor and I had been in contact since the Mentor Program paired us together, but it was nice meeting her in a relaxed and comfortable situation. Another event where third-year law students have the opportunity to meet alumni is the KU Law Homecoming Reception, which takes place at the Oread immediately following the game.
Regardless of where you went to undergraduate school, your years at Green Hall will make you a Jayhawk for life. I strongly encourage you to go out and experience some of the great traditions the university has to offer. Years from now, you too will be able to return to Lawrence for Homecoming to reminisce and keep the traditions alive.
Juliette Nguyen, 2L and Student Ambassador
